In order to bundle and network competences and resources in the VDMA on the topic of quantum technologies on a single topic-oriented platform and to give the topic of quantum technology better visibility, the VDMA Forum Photonics has been renamed the VDMA Forum Quantum Technologies and Photonics.

In future, the following organisational units will work together in the Forum:

• Competence Center Future Business
• Electronics, Micro and New Energy Production Technologies
• Compressors, Compressed Air and Vacuum Technology
• Laser and Laser Systems for Material Processing
• Baden-Württemberg State Association / Alliance Industry 4.0 Baden-Württemberg
• Measuring and testing technology
• Informatics

In the area of photonics, the forum is based on a membership of more than 500 companies and research institutions along the entire value chain - of which around 400 members are primarily active in photonics.

It is planned to set up a steering committee on quantum technologies made up of representatives of the member companies in order to define the goals of the Forum on a broad basis. The activities of the various VDMA organisational units will also be coordinated by the forum.

The forum uses synergies to anchor quantum technologies and photonics more firmly in the consciousness of politics and the public. Among other things, it offers its own newsletter and an information channel on the IndustryArena. In addition, the Forum will represent the topics of quantum technologies and photonics at various national and international trade fairs and conferences.